It seems I must have a deep rooted tendency to judge, be critical, and just plain refuse to (inwardly) accept those opposed to what 'I' deem as righteous and pleasing to GOD... leaving little room for "where" they may be on their journey... leaving little room for "what" may be locked within their heart... leaving very little room for YaHWeH to reveal Himself through me (to others)--- or TO ME (by others). Hmmm...
I read a BEAUTIFUL blog about a wonderful family this person had met and spent some time with. A family that expressed such love toward one another that it seemed to just pour out on those surrounding them. A family that showed such love, respect, and honor toward one another that it felt like an honor to know them. A family that carried an air of love and integrity. Wouldn't we all want to be looked upon as that type of family? I know I would want those qualities to be portrayed from my family. But here's the [embarressing] "catch"... when I SAW the family... well, it surprised me! WHY?? Because they didn't LOOK like the kind of family those things would be said about. They didn't LOOK like the description that was given them. They didn't?? They didn't, to WHOM? They didn't... to ME. I could only see their 'outsides'... which 'certainly didn't meet with MY standards of respectable, loving, honorable human beings'. UGH!! HOW SICKENING of me!!! YaHWeH sees the beauty that lies within... YaHWeH sees with eyes of love and compassion... YaHWeH receives the heart of man, without prejudice.
Now, read within the context of my point... I DO believe YaHWeH DOES have a standard for us to live by... but that is HIS buisness and HE is the Judge. I do NOT believe we should condone or take part in sin... but this is NOT what I'm talking about here. What I'm saying is that I, for one, have been guilty of pre-judging and withdrawing myself from those that seem to be "too worldly" or "too 'whatever' "... and I can clearly see that it is NOT right. My heart is to follow the heart of YaHWeH... so there is no room for me to not give my all. Relationships and people are what matter... and I want to live fully unto my Father <3 :)
So, I guess what I feel like YaHWeH is showing me is the true beauty that lies within... the beauty that HIS eyes behold... and the beauty that He desires to share with me-- through others. I'm very thankful that YaHWeH is so patient and kind with me, leading me out of my 'comfort zone' and opening my eyes to the error of my ways. It's never easy and it's never comfortable... but it's always the best way!! :)
*A Joyful thought* "Beauty is in the eye of the Beholder (YHWH)" :)
"He hath made every thing beautful in His time..." Ecc. 3:11